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The kiwi plant is a fast-growing vine that does well in sunny, acidic soils. If you are adding kiwi to your garden, plan out a trellis system to support the vines. Because kiwi are sensitive to certain nutrient conditions, obtain a soil test from your local university extension before you plant seeds or transplants.

General Information

The most common nutrient deficiency in kiwi plants is low nitrogen. Kiwi plants have high nitrogen needs and are best fertilized with citrus or avocado tree fertilizers, since these plants have similar nutrient needs. You can use granular or liquid fertilizers for kiwi plants. If you use granular fertilizer, avoid applying it in concentrated amounts, and spread it over the entire root zone. Avoid applying more than 20 pounds of liquid fertilizer per application to avoid root injury.

Timing and Amount

Mature kiwi plants older than 6 years usually use about 1 pound of nitrogen per vine each year, according to the Oregon State University Extension. The first half of the growing season is a particularly important time for kiwi growth and development. For best results, fertilize kiwi plants when they start to develop buds, which is usually in March, and again just before fruit set, which usually takes place in May or June.

How to Fertilize

Kiwi plants are sensitive to fertilizers and also susceptible to nitrogen burn, so follow manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid plant damage. A soil analysis will determine whether your kiwi plants have any additional nutrient needs. The soil needs to be moist when you fertilize to ensure delivery of nutrients. The Oregon State University Extension recommends irrigating your kiwi plants, then waiting a few days to fertilize. Fertilizing after rainfall is also a good way to ensure adequate moisture.

Other Considerations

Some soil conditions can cause problems that resemble nutrient deficiencies, but are actually caused by other issues. For example, if your soil pH is too high, kiwi plants may display signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing and dropping leaves. In this situation, applying fertilizer would not solve the problem. For this reason, it's important to obtain a complete soil analysis of nutrient levels as well as soil pH before applying fertilizer to kiwi plants.

About the Author

Nicole Crawford is a NASM-certified personal trainer, doula and pre/post-natal fitness specialist. She is studying to be a nutrition coach and RYT 200 yoga teacher. Nicole contributes regularly at Breaking Muscle and has also written for "Paleo Magazine," The Bump and Fit Bottomed Mamas.